TTAC Photochop: Toyota Avensis

Andrei Avarvarii
by Andrei Avarvarii

I often ask myself why Asian manufacturers don't try to establish a stronger visual identity. I wish I could know at first glance to which brand a Japanese car belongs. You can always tell a BMW (although you can't tell it much). Toyota and other Asian manufacturers seem to be going through a continuous struggle to find their identity. Every new model is a step forward– in a different direction. They're caught in fast shifting currents of contemporary design, just trying to keep their heads above water. Toyota has a chance to establishing a distinctive, brand-specific beachhead with the third generation Avensis, due for launch next year. I'd like to see a major departure from the traditional Toyota design. Honestly? I don't think it's going to happen. Photos of test vehicles show a more dynamic and ascending side line, big head lights curved along the corners and a new grille. To me it looks already dated. Maybe they are saving the "cool stuff" for Scion.

[For more Avarvarii photochopistry, click here]

Andrei Avarvarii
Andrei Avarvarii

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  • Nicholas Weaver Nicholas Weaver on Apr 14, 2008

    Lexus has a design language. Mazda does, and a pretty strong one if you exclude the rebadged fords. And Nissan has one, but its not as strong. I think its mostly Toyota and Honda that don't. But they don't necessarily NEED one.

  • Lewissalem Lewissalem on Apr 14, 2008

    I believe that Mazda has styling that is recognizable.

  • Jurisb Jurisb on Apr 14, 2008

    Wow, this looks professional . well done. Even proportions are ok. But I believe Next Avensis will evolutionize its predecesssor, not photoshop Camry elements.Send me your email address, I will send you some pics of the car I am working on, in real life.

  • Andrei Avarvarii Andrei Avarvarii on Apr 14, 2008

    I have to admit Lexus are working something out with the L-Finesse. Mazda's Zoom-Zoom is also pretty strong. But this is happening unfortunately with only two of the many Asian manufacturers... @ jurisb You can find contact details on my website

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